This dish features crunchy asparagus wrapped in tasty prosciutto, giving it a yummy salty kick! It’s drizzled with a light and tangy lemon cream sauce that makes every bite special.
These little bundles are perfect as an appetizer or side dish. I love to make them for parties; they disappear faster than I can say “asparagus!” Give them a try; your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is essential here for that crunchy texture. If you’re vegan or can’t find asparagus, try green beans or zucchini for a similar look and feel.
Prosciutto: This adds a wonderful salty flavor. If you’re looking for something leaner, use turkey bacon or even smoked salmon for a different twist!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream. If avoiding dairy, a mix of almond milk and cornstarch can create a nice thick sauce.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is best for brightness in the sauce. Lime juice can be a good substitute if you want to experiment with flavors.
Parmesan Cheese: I love the depth it adds! You can substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version or pecorino for a sharper flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Crisp Prosciutto?
Crispy prosciutto brings amazing flavor and texture to the dish. To achieve that, avoid wrapping it too thickly around the asparagus, as it needs to cook evenly.
- Preheat your oven sufficiently to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the prosciutto crisps up nicely.
- Keep an eye on the asparagus while roasting. If the prosciutto starts to get too dark, cover the dish loosely with foil.
This way, you’ll have perfectly tender asparagus with a delightful crunch from the prosciutto!
How to Make Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Lemon Cream Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asparagus Bundles:
- 1 bunch (about 20 spears) fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 10 slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Cream Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, for a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy, making it a perfect choice for a delicious appetizer or side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat will help make the prosciutto nice and crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to keep things simple when it comes time to clean up.
2. Season the Asparagus:
In a large bowl, toss the trimmed asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each spear is evenly coated to enhance the flavor.
3. Wrap the Asparagus:
Take each bundle of asparagus (about 3-4 spears) and wrap it tightly with a strip of prosciutto. The prosciutto should cover the middle section well. Repeat this until all the asparagus is wrapped up and ready for cooking!
4. Roast the Asparagus:
Place the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus bundles on the lined baking sheet. Pop them into the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is nicely crisped.
5. Make the Lemon Cream Sauce:
While the asparagus is roasting, let’s whip up that delicious lemon cream sauce! In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
6. Combine the Sauce Ingredients:
Pour in the heavy cream, followed by the lemon zest and lemon juice. Stir everything together and allow it to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens a little.
7. Finish the Sauce:
Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove it from the heat.
8. Serving Time:
To serve, spoon some of the lemon cream sauce onto a plate and arrange the warm prosciutto-wrapped asparagus on top. It looks so pretty!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives for a bit of color and flavor, and serve lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy this delightful dish, and watch it disappear quickly!
Can I Use Different Vegetables Instead of Asparagus?
Absolutely! You can use green beans, zucchini, or even bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the vegetable’s thickness for best results!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I recommend placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to keep the prosciutto crispy.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can wrap the asparagus with prosciutto and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before roasting. When you’re ready, just pop them in the oven, and don’t forget to prepare the sauce fresh for the best flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’d like a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. For a healthier option, a blend of almond milk and a bit of cornstarch can help thicken the sauce without the creaminess.
